Migraines can be debilitating and disruptive to daily life. It is estimated that 12 percent of people struggle with migraines, according to the Migraine Research Foundation. While medication is proven to be the most effective form of treatment, there are some home remedies that can stop the early stages of a migraine or ease the symptoms. Try a few of the home remedies listed below to see how a change in daily habits might help with migraine pain.

Drink Caffeinated Beverages

Drinking caffeine can reduce the early symptoms of a migraine, and when paired with Tylenol it has been proven to enhance the pain-relieving effects of medication. Too much caffeine, however, especially if late in the day, can interrupt sleep patterns which can make migraines worse. Drinking caffeine in small amounts and at the appropriate times can help alleviate symptoms.

Eat Ginger

One study compared the effects of eating ginger for migraines to the effects of sumatriptan (a well-known migraine medication). It was found that consuming ginger can ease the symptoms of a migraine and is comparable to sumatriptan. While it is not certain if ginger will be effective on migraines for everyone, ginger still contains many antioxidants and is a healthy addition to your diet.

Temperature Therapy

Try introducing different temperatures to your body to ease migraines. Applying a hot compress to your head can ease the tension in your muscles, help you relax, and lessen the pain from your migraine. Taking a hot shower can have also relax you muscles and ease the pain. Similarly, a cold compress or icepack can help with numbing the migraine pain.  

Try Essential Oils

Lavender oil, as seen in one study, has been proven to relieve migraines when inhaled or placed directly on the temples. It can relieve stress, anxiety, and migraine pain. Peppermint oil, while less researched, can help stop a migraine in the early stages when inhaled or placed on the temples.

If you suffer from migraines, consider joining a paid migraine research study. Click here to learn more.